Hiatus Hernia
A hiatus hernia is a weakness of the diaphragmatic muscle, which the oesophagus travels through to get to the abdomen.
Over time, this weakness can lead to a shortening of the oesophagus which drags the stomach, and sometimes other organs, up into the chest.
Most patients with a simple, sliding hiatus hernia will only experience heartburn. These patients are generally managed with medications only. However larger hernias can lead to complications such as obstruction, bleeding, and heart or lung issues. It is these patients that may require surgical intervention.
Surgery is almost always via a keyhole approach and takes around 90 minutes. A short stay in hospital is required afterwards and patients are kept on a soft/modified diet for a few weeks in the recovery period.
Treatment,
tailored to you
Gallbladder surgery
Removal of the gallbladder- otherwise known as cholecystectomy- is almost always done via a laparoscopic, or keyhole, approach. This is usually performed electively either as day surgery or with a one-night stay in hospital.
Dr Gillespie specialises in the following procedures
Abdominal Wall Hernia Repair
There are many different types of abdominal wall hernia- but this can include umbilical (naval) and incisional hernias.
They are always repaired under a general anaesthetic.
Gastrectomy
A gastrectomy is performed for the surgical management of gastric (stomach) cancer. It involves the removal of the tumour with the stomach itself ensuring that the entire cancer is removed, along with removal of the lymph nodes that would typically be the first place that cancer would spread.
Fundoplication (Anti Reflux Surgery)
A fundoplication is a surgical procedure performed for people with proven gastro-oesophageal reflux that cannot be managed with medication alone. It is also performed as part of a hiatus hernia repair. It is usually performed laparoscopically.
Hiatus Hernia Repair
Most hiatus hernia surgery is performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and involves returning the stomach to the abdominal cavity and then repairing the hernia itself.
Inguinal (groin) hernia repair
This is generally done via a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach under a general anaesthetic. There may be some circumstances where an open approach is preferable and Dr Gillespie will discuss the details specific to you when consenting for surgery.
Endoscopy (Gastroscopy/Colonoscopy)
Endoscopy is performed under either a sedation or general anaesthetic. It is a day procedure that occurs in hospital.
Oesophagectomy
An oesophagectomy is performed to remove a tumour of the oesophagus or the junction between the oesophagus and stomach, along with the lymph nodes to which this cancer tends to spread first.
Weight Loss Surgery
First of all, congratulations on making the first step towards a real lifestyle change. We know that most people will have already explored many options before enquiring about weight loss surgery.
Often, people are sick of the cycle of weight loss followed by weight regain. And many people will find that after working hard to lose weight, they can even put more back on. This process can be so disheartening. While weight loss surgery is by no means an "easy" way out, it can help break this cycle and empower you with the tools to have long lasting weight loss.
But more important than the number on the scales, bariatric surgery can help with obesity related complications and allow you to live a life without compromise.
